E-Poster Title: Recent advances in the eco-design of sustainable polyesters for packaging applications.
Authors: Mattia Manfroni1, Michelina Soccio1, Paolo Mariani2, Cristina Zampa3, Nadia Lotti1
Affiliations:
1 Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering (DICAM), University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy
2 Versalis SpA, Strada Savonesa 9, 15057, Alessandria, Italy
3 Versalis SpA, Via G. Fauser 4, 28100, Novara, Italy
Abstract text: Packaging plays a crucial role in preserving and protecting products, extending shelf life, and enhancing consumer convenience. In recent years, the demand for sustainable packaging solutions has increased significantly, driven by growing concerns about environmental pollution and the high CO₂ emissions associated with plastics production and use. Traditionally, oil-based plastics were and still are widely used in packaging due to their low cost and favorable mechanical and barrier properties. However, their negative environmental impact, both in terms of non-renewable resource exploitation and non-biodegradability, poses serious ecological challenges. As a result, there is a pressing need to reduce reliance on such materials by exploring alternatives with a lower carbon footprint. Among these, bioplastics such as poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) have emerged as promising sustainable options [1]. PBS is a biobased and biodegradable aliphatic polyester that offers an excellent balance of thermo-mechanical properties [2]. Yet while having these advantages, PBS is still often blended with other polymers to enhance its applicability [3]. In this context, the current study presents a novel approach to the chemical modification of PBS. Specifically, the synthesis of block copolymers comprising PBS and another biobased polyester has been carried out following a reactive blending procedure. By varying the time during the blending process, different molecular architectures were achieved, along with tailored property modulation. Additionally, a random copolymer was also synthesized from the monomers to allow for a comparative analysis with the block copolymers. Finally, the resulting materials were processed and characterized to assess their potential as sustainable packaging solutions.
References:
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[2] Gigli, M.; Fabbri, M; Lotti, N; Gamberini, R.; Rimini, B.; Munari, A. Poly(butylene succinate)-based polyesters for biomedical applications: A review. Eur. Polym. J. 2016, 75, 431-460. DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2016.01.016.
[3] Barletta, M.; Aversa, C.; Ayyoob, M.; Gisario, A.; Hamad, K.; Mehrpouya, M.; Vahabi, H. Poly (butylene succinate) (PBS): Materials, processing, and industrial applications. Prog. Polym. Sci. 2022, 132, 101579. DOI: 10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2022.101579.